South Africa's World Cup campaign becomes a proxy for immigration debate
via The Citizen3 min read
South Africa's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has become a focal point for the country's debate on illegal immigration, with politicians and public figures reacting to Bafana Bafana's performance through this lens. Following their 2-0 defeat to Mexico, EFF's Sinawo Thambo criticized anti-illegal immigration protesters, stating their actions are damaging South Africa's international reputation and leading to the perception of the country as a "hub of hate." He argued that jokes about Bafana's early exit reflect a deeper social commentary about South Africa's stance on immigration. Conversely, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula defended Bafana Bafana, urging national unity and support for the team despite the loss, reminding them they earned their spot. March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma dismissed those supporting Mexico, telling foreign nationals to address issues in their home countries. Thambo emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that South Africa being viewed as a "hate capital of Africa" is a stain on its identity and criticized the government for its perceived soft approach towards anti-immigration groups.
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Must ReadMore than 20 South African Police Service Saps officers have been arrested for alleged connections to the taxi industry, according to MP Ian Cameron. Cameron stated that members of the portfolio committee on police have identified numerous Saps members in the Western Cape, including junior members, station commanders, and senior officials, who are reportedly involved in or improperly linked to the taxi industry. Over 20 police members face criminal charges, and more than 20 have also been charged under Saps disciplinary regulations, with several already having resigned. Cameron emphasized that Saps members are prohibited from involvement in the taxi industry that creates financial interest, conflict of interest, or improper outside remunerative work, as such involvement compromises their policing duties. He noted that these arrests have so far occurred only in the Western Cape, with plans to investigate the issue across the rest of the country, as it is considered a major problem throughout South Africa. Further information has been submitted to the National Commissioner鈥檚 office to ensure continued action.
The Western Cape High Court dismissed a Zimbabwean man's application to extend the 180-day period for reviewing a Home Affairs decision that declared him a prohibited person. Fidel Isheanesu Mugunzva, 40, entered South Africa on a visitor's visa in 2011. While seeking employment, he was referred to an immigration agent named Wendy. In 2012, Wendy informed him his name was on a Home Affairs list, suggesting his mother might have applied for him under an amnesty program. Mugunzva paid Wendy R12,000 and received a permanent resident permit, which he used for eight years, traveling, opening bank accounts, and gaining employment. In 2018, after losing his permit letter, he applied for proof of permanent residence. On February 26, 2020, Home Affairs informed him the permit number did not exist, the permit was fraudulent, and he was designated a prohibited person. Mugunzva returned to Zimbabwe in August 2022, claiming he received the Minister's decision only on November 23, 2023. He argued he was too poor to pursue legal action earlier and never had an opportunity to make representations before being declared a prohibited person. The court found Home Affairs failed to give him an opportunity to make representations and did not properly investigate whether he knowingly participated in fraud or was a victim. However, the court ruled that Mugunzva's excessive delay in bringing the review application outweighed his prospects of success.
Gauteng police are investigating two Wierdabrug officers after a video circulated on social media allegedly showing them taking a R2,000 bribe during Operation Shanela on June 4. According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the officers reportedly stopped a suspect on a bicycle, seized it, and then drove him to Wierdapark where they allegedly took money for his release. The officers have been identified, and a departmental case has been opened, with an inquiry registered to investigate all allegations. Nevhuhulwi urged the public to formally report corruption to build strong cases, stating that while social media raises awareness, it should not be the final step. Experts like Witness Maluleka from the University of Limpopo and Percy Sithuga from the University of Venda's School of Law expressed concern, noting that such incidents undermine public trust and the integrity of the criminal justice system, despite the presence of ethical officers. Sithuga emphasized that public confidence in policing relies on officers upholding the law and being held accountable for violations.